Thinking about relocating to Germany or Austria? This comprehensive Germany vs Austria comparison covers everything expats and international workers need to know: average salaries, tax rates, work-life balance, annual leave policies, maternity and paternity leave, and cost of living considerations. Whether you're a software developer, engineer, or professional considering a move to Europe, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Average Salary Difference
0%
Same pays more
Germany
52.000 €
avg. salary
Austria
€ 52.000
avg. salary
Germany vs Austria Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
52.000 €€ 52.000Median Salary
44.000 €€ 44.000Minimum Wage
24.960 €€ 0Top 10%
80.000 €€ 85.000Work-Life Balance: Germany vs Austria
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
35-40 hours
38.5-40 hours
Annual Leave
20-30 days (minimum 20 days)
25 days minimum (30 days after 25 years)
Public Holidays
9 days
13 days
Sick Leave
6 weeks at 100%, then 70% (up to 78 weeks)
6-12 weeks at 100% (varies by tenure)
Maternity Leave
14 weeks at 100% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
Up to 14 months parental leave (shared)
1 month (Papamonat)
Germany vs Austria for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
Germany
Why Work in Germany
Strong Job Security
German labor laws provide excellent protection against unfair dismissal and strong worker rights.
Excellent Engineering & Tech Sector
World-renowned industries offering cutting-edge work in automotive, manufacturing, and technology.
Quality Healthcare
Universal healthcare system with high-quality medical care and reasonable costs.
Central European Hub
Excellent transportation networks and central location for European travel and business.
Strong Economy
Stable economy with low unemployment and consistent growth opportunities.
Challenges of Living in Germany
High Tax Burden
Combined income tax and social security contributions can reach 42-45% of gross salary.
Language Barrier
Unlike the Netherlands, German is often required in the workplace, especially outside major cities.
Bureaucracy
German bureaucracy can be challenging, with many processes requiring in-person visits and German documents.
Church Tax
Members of certain religions pay an additional 8-9% church tax on income tax.
Complex Tax System
Six tax classes and numerous deductions make understanding your net salary complicated.
Austria
Why Work in Austria
Exceptional Quality of Life
Vienna regularly tops global livability rankings. Beautiful nature, rich culture, and excellent public services.
13th and 14th Month Salary
Employees receive 14 salary payments per year, with special payments taxed at only 6%.
Strong Worker Protections
Extensive collective agreements (Kollektivvertrage) ensure good working conditions and benefits.
Central European Location
Easy access to Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Eastern Europe for business and travel.
Excellent Healthcare & Education
High-quality public healthcare and education system, including free university education.
Challenges of Living in Austria
High Tax Rates
Progressive tax rates up to 55% on very high incomes. Effective rates around 35-45% for most earners.
German Language Required
Unlike Netherlands, German is essential for most jobs. English-only positions are limited.
No Statutory Minimum Wage
Wages depend on collective agreements, which can be complex to navigate.
Bureaucracy
Austrian bureaucracy can be slow and requires patience, particularly for foreign nationals.
Conservative Business Culture
More traditional than Netherlands or UK; building relationships takes time.
Tax Rates Germany vs Austria
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
Germany
- Progressive tax system from 14% to 45%
- Six tax classes based on marital status
- Optional church tax (8-9% of income tax)
- Solidarity surcharge for high earners
- Social security split between employer and employee
Austria
- Progressive tax rates from 0% to 55%
- Tax-free amount of EUR 12,816
- 13th/14th month salaries taxed at 6% flat rate
- Social security contribution of 17.99%
- Family Bonus Plus of EUR 2,000/child/year
Best Cities to Work in Germany and Austria
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Germany
Austria
How to Find Jobs in Germany vs Austria
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
Germany
LinkedIn for international roles, Xing is Germany's local professional network essential for German-speaking positions.
Major German job portals with extensive listings across all industries and experience levels.
Official government portal with job listings and comprehensive immigration information.
Official job portal with verified positions and support services for job seekers.
German Recruitment Agencies
Agencies like Robert Half, Hays Germany, and Kienbaum help place international professionals.
Austria
LinkedIn for international roles, karriere.at is Austria's leading job portal.
University Career Services
TU Wien, WU Vienna, and other universities have strong industry connections.
Work Visa Options: Germany vs Austria
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
Germany Work Visas
EU Blue Card
For highly qualified workers. Germany issues most EU Blue Cards in Europe.
Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräftevisum)
For qualified professionals with vocational training or university degree.
Job Seeker Visa
Allows qualified professionals to enter Germany and search for work.
IT Specialist Visa
Special visa for IT professionals without formal degrees but with practical experience.
Austria Work Visas
Red-White-Red Card
Austria's main skilled worker visa with points-based system.
EU Blue Card Austria
For highly qualified workers with university degrees.
Red-White-Red Card Plus
For family members and transition from initial RWR Card.
Job Seeker Visa
For highly qualified individuals to search for work in Austria.
Frequently Asked Questions: Germany vs Austria
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Germany vs Austria?
The average salary in Germany is 52.000 € per year, while in Austria it is € 52.000 per year. This represents a 0% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Germany or Austria?
Germany offers 20-30 days (minimum 20 days) annual leave and 9 public holidays with a 35-40 hours work week. Austria offers 25 days minimum (30 days after 25 years) annual leave and 13 public holidays with a 38.5-40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between Germany and Austria?
In Germany, maternity leave is 14 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is Up to 14 months parental leave (shared). In Austria, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 1 month (Papamonat).
Is it better to work in Germany or Austria as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Germany offers: Strong Job Security, Excellent Engineering & Tech Sector. Austria offers: Exceptional Quality of Life, 13th and 14th Month Salary. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Germany and Austria?
Germany: Progressive tax system from 14% to 45%. Austria: Progressive tax rates from 0% to 55%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in Germany or Austria
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
